Just a few weeks ago, we reported on the action RPG Lost Ark, stating that Diablo 3 is quite comparable. With Lineage Eternal, another competitor joins the ranks of action MMOs. But what sets Lineage apart from Lost Ark and Diablo 3?
Long Journey of the Korean Game
As early as summer 2011, the action RPG sequel to Lineage was announced. Since then, much has happened, but a precise release date for Lineage Eternal has not yet been heard from South Korea. At the end of 2014, there was new gameplay footage. However, a global beta is supposed to take place in 2016, which is considered a preparation for a simultaneous worldwide release in 2017.
5 years from announcement to release – this is mainly due to the fact that former 48 employees from NCSoft transitioned to the TERA team and took a lot from Lineage 3, according to NCSoft. For example, entire character classes were adopted.
Graphics More Diablo 3, Less Lost Ark
When looking at the graphics of the three action RPGs, one sees that Lineage is very reminiscent of Diablo. While Lost Ark comes off a bit more pompous. However, the Lineage graphics also hold up quite well compared to the Blizzard game. In the trailer, especially the fire and ice effects stand out. However, the game forgoes orbs as health indicators and prefers to use classic health bars.
Open World and Lots to Do
NCSoft promises that Lineage Eternal is not just an action RPG, but a full-fledged MMORPG with an open world. Up to 500 players will be able to be in one area at the same time. Besides the open world, there will also be instanced areas such as PvP arenas and dungeons, which will always be randomly generated. NCSoft refers to them as “Dynamic Randomize Dungeons.” With the random dungeons, NCSoft is not reinventing the wheel, but I am especially excited about the open world, where dynamic events will also take place.
With more than 20 players, there will be raids against nasty bosses. And those who need a break can rest in the densely populated cities.
Also Play on the Go
One of the interesting features of Lineage Eternal is the promised mobile compatibility. Yes – you heard that right: Lineage can be played not only on your computer but also on a tablet or smartphone. The challenge lies in the controls, which must work for both PC and touchscreens. Here, too, NCSoft promises to help with a swipe movement that activates the skills, allowing for an MMORPG feel. In the video, it already looks promising.
Classes Are Partially Known
Meanwhile, several heroes have been introduced that will be included in the game. We provide an overview here: All 13 Classes of Lineage Eternal.
The Lineage franchise is the oldest and also the most successful brand that NCSoft operates. While Guild Wars 2 is doing well for us, Wildstar can be easily declared a flop based on the quarterly numbers – Time for a new success story for NCSoft, even in the West.
If you want to learn more about another major title that is expected to shake up the MMO genre in 2016, I recommend the following post: Lost Ark – Diablo 3 in beautiful and better?
